Retired Furnace minister tops Argyll awards list
BILLY Connolly’s knighthood grabbed the national headlines, but here in Argyll there was plenty to celebrate as the Queen’s Birthday honours list was announced.
One well-known Furnace figure was handed a well-deserved honour.
The Reverend Dr Roderick MacLeod received an MBE for services to the Gaelic language and voluntary service in Argyll.
Rev MacLeod, who turns 76 tomorrow (Saturday), is a native of North Uist.
After 20 years as minister at Berneray, he moved to Argyll to become minister of Cumlodden, Lochfyneside and Lochgair in 1985, a position he held until his retirement in 2011. Rev MacLeod served as a Western Isles councillor between 1974 and 1982.
Among a plethora of roles during his long and varied career, he has been a JP, edited the Gaelic supplement of Life and
Work, taught university courses and been a frequent broadcaster on Gaelic radio and television. He has conducted Gaelic services across Argyll and the isles and as far away as London.
On receipt of the news of his MBE, Mr MacLeod said: ‘This is a great honour, and most unexpected.’
Also among the honours was Margaret Mather, who was awarded a BEM for services to the community in Inveraray. Mrs Mather has served as secretary of Inveraray Highland Games for 26 years, and said: ‘I was totally surprised when the letter arrived five weeks ago – but very honoured and proud to receive it.
‘Over the years I have worked with so many enthusiastic people on the various committees I have been involved with and couldn’t have done my bit without their support – and made lovely friends along the way. This is something I will treasure.’
Another recipient of the BEM was Anne Masino, Inveraray, for voluntary service to young people through the UK Scout Association. She has been volunteering for the Scout Association for more than 30 years and has dedicated her time and funds to organising community service expeditions around the world. She also supported her husband Mike in managing the Lochgoilhead Scout Centre.
A well-known face in Arrochar, Mary Haggerty was given her own BEM. Mrs Haggerty has been secretary of Arrochar and Tarbet Community Council for many years and received her award for services to the community.